The Milton Freemasons are reaching out to the Clutha community, announcing their readiness to donate thousands of dollars to deserving initiatives. The Otago Masonic Charitable Trust annually allocates up to $14,000 to various community groups, including toy libraries, surf lifesaving clubs, sports, and theatrical societies. Doug Keen of Milton Lodge St John 461 explains, “Masons fundraise internally to embody our ethos of ‘taking good men and making them better’ by supporting community leaders in their beneficial projects with the necessary funds.”
The Trust is open for applications for financial support, requiring applicants to submit annual reports, financial statements, and plans for the use of the funds. The deadline for this year’s applications is March 31. Emphasizing their apolitical and non-religious stance, a spokesperson highlighted the Masons’ commitment to knowledge, loyalty, service to others, trust, and self-improvement. “For me, the essence of our craft lies in actively contributing to this improvement, fostering camaraderie, honing my public speaking and social skills, and caring for others,” the spokesperson added.
Those interested in applying for funding or joining the Freemasons can contact the secretary at 027 221 3526 or via email at info.omct@xtra.co.nz.
For more detailed inquiries, you can reach out to NICK.BROOK@cluthaleader.co.nz.